Pathways

To help you support your child through the transition of Key Stage 3, 4 and beyond we have included a range of different links to help you build your knowledge of 'What's Next".

Every child at Oxclose Community Academy will have the opportunity to develop their confidence and skills to help them make informed choices about their future pathways. In each year group students will have the opportunity to:

  • Hear from local employers via an assembly or workshop.
  • Participate in University workshops and offsite visits.
  • Hear from local colleges and 6th Forms.

Once your child reaches Key Stage 4 they will have the opportunity to participate in a week long works experience, attend local colleges, 6th Forms and Universities for taster sessions and by the end of Year 11 they will have had a 40 minute career guidance interview with Mr Steve Moses, our Level 6 accredited Careers Advisor.

Post 16 pathways:

There are 4 main pathways, all of which could lead to university, however we would advise you to check the requirements of the course your child is interested in and the number of UCAS Points needed for enrollment.

Level 2 qualifications are equivalent to GCSE's. If your child opts for an apprenticeship or a vocational qualification they may be required to start from Level 2 even though they have GCSEs, depending on the skills they require. Often vocational qualifications have Level's 1, 2 and 3.

Apprenticeships - combine practical training in a job with study. As an apprentice you'll: be an employee earning a wage and getting holiday pay,  work alongside experienced staff and gain job-specific skills.

The National Apprenticeship Service website offers guidance on how to apply for an apprenticeship as well as listing current local apprenticeship opportunities.  More information on apprenticeships can be found at http://amazingapprenticeships.com.

A Levels - Advanced level qualifications (known as A levels) are subject-based qualifications that can lead to university, further study, training, or work. You can normally study three or more A levels over two years.

T Levels - The 'T' stands for technical and from 2020, T Levels will give 16 to 19 -year olds a technical alternative to A levels. One T Level is equivalent to 3 A levels. T Levels are delivered by selected schools and colleges. Click the picture to watch the video.

Vocational Qualifications - Vocational qualifications are often career-based. They typically involve a mix of studying and hands-on practical experience in the world of work. With a vocational qualification you usually don't have to sit in an exam, or you will get a mix of exams throughout the year and some coursework.